Kidney Failure

Aug 18, 2006

I have been on ARVs for one and half years now. At first I was on Triomune after a year I developed some side effects of Lipo and I switched to ABC and my latest CD4 count results are 242 but there is a problem which has come in. My doctor says i have developed a problem with my kidneys and they are considering switching the meds once again. I am so scared and worried about this issue. Should I continue taking my meds or go on a break. Please advise. What should I do to help the situation?

Response from Dr. Henry

It is unclear from your note which HIV regimen you are taking right now. The lamivudine in Triomune is cleared by the kidneys so if there is some kidney dysfunction the dose needs to be adjusted so the fixed dose in Triomune is often not appropriate. If you are taking abacavir the dose adjustments needed for patients with kidney problems is not well worked out but since it is mostly cleared by the liver often full doses are used until there is significant kidney impairment. I caution against stopping your HIV medications without consultation with your hIV specialist since resistance and clincial problems can develop when medications are stopped without careful planning. KH

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